Shaving

ShaveShaving, which can cause irritation and discomfort to the skin, is a necessary step for most men. If the right products are used, shaving does not need to be a painful or tedious task.

The best time to shave is within 10 minutes after your shower, when your skin is wet, when the hair follicles are soft, and when your pores are open. This will cause less razor bumps and irritation in the long run.

When shaving, it is important to go with the grain. Otherwise, the blade will pull the hairs away from the face causing nicks, razor burns, or ingrown hairs. If you want the closest shave possible and just can’t resist, shave first with the grain of the hair. Next, you can re-lather and shave very lightly against the grain, which will lessen the likelihood of skin irritation.

The products you need to achieve a perfect shave:

Pre-shaveThis is a step that often gets missed when shaving. If you use a pre-shave oil on the skin before shaving, this will prepare the skin and provide a closer shave. This will also help to prevent razor bumps and ingrown hairs. Look for ingredients like aloe, tea tree extract, azulene or allantoin which will help to condition your skin and accelerate healing.

Shave GelGels work wonderfully for men who have oily or acne-prone skin. They rinse off cleanly and will work best for men with light stubble or hair that is less coarse.

Shave FoamMany men prefer a shave foam because it starts out as a gel and works into a soft lather. This is ideal for men with normal to dry skin as it will lightly hydrate your skin.

Shave CreamCream formulas are great for facial hair that is coarse, or if you want a very close shave. Creams can also add some hydration to the skin for dry skin types.AftershaveWearing an aftershave will help to calm the skin, as long as there are no fragrances or alcohol. Many aftershaves contain topical anesthetics to lesson irritation and soothe the skin, and plant extracts and vitamins to nourish and protect the skin.